[Press Release] : Health Department providing flu shots on walk-in basis

[pr-l at news.gocolumbiamo.com]

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 2, 2005

CONTACT: Heather Baer
             (573) 874-7632

Health Department now providing flu shots on a walk-in basis           
									
	(COLUMBIA, MO) - The Columbia-Boone County Health is providing flu shots to the general public on a walk-in basis until current supplies are depleted. Shots will be given during regular clinic hours 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Cost for the flu vaccine will be $15 payable by cash or check only. Medicaid and Medicare are accepted. The health department is unable to bill private insurance.  
	Vaccination with the live, nasal-spray flu vaccine FluMist® is a highly effective alternative for healthy persons aged 5-49 years who are not pregnant. Because FluMist® does contain a weakened version of the live flu virus, it is not recommended for any with chronic health conditions. FluMist® is also available on a walk-in basis at a cost of $25. 
	Pneumonia vaccine is also available through the health department year-round at a cost of $25. People should check with their physician to determine if they should consider getting this immunization.  
          	The health department would like to remind residents that preventing the spread of the flu is very important and can be done by taking simple actions that include:
	*	avoiding close contact with people who are sick.
	*	staying home from school or work when you are sick.
	*	covering your mouth and nose when you are coughing or sneezing.
	*	coughing or sneezing into your upper arm, not your hands, if you do not 	
		have a tissue.
	*	washing your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 		
		seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand 	
		sanitizer.
	*	avoiding touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
	The health department is located in the Sanford-Kimpton building at 1005 W. Worley Street. The health information line can be accessed at (573) 874-7355, option #9 and will be updated to reflect changes in vaccine availability.


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